Andorra la Vella Unveils Diverse 13th Jambo Festival Lineup for June 18-20

Andorra la Vella has unveiled the 13th edition of its Jambo music festival, set for 18-20 June in the Historic Centre. Organisers described the event as the most diverse and international to date, while remaining free and open to all.

The lineup was presented by Cònsol Menor Olalla Losada, Tourism and Commerce Minister Jordi Torres, and event organisers Toni Colom and Oriol Vilella. They emphasised its role as a cultural and economic driver for the country. Performances will run daytime until midnight across six stages, fostering a family-friendly atmosphere. Key venues include Plaça Guillemó and Plaça del Poble as main stages, Avinguda Meritxell 10 parking for Jazz Messengers, Plaça del Consell, Placeta Sant Esteve, and Cap de Carrer for smaller acts. Plaça Monjó is excluded this year, with fewer DJ interludes to prioritise live music.

A core focus remains on local talent, featuring 17 Andorran acts that have released original discs in the past year. Highlights include new EPs from Quim Salvat and Four Flags, plus anniversaries for Odara Trio (10 years) and Komanem (20 years). Emerging locals such as Marta's (Marta Argemí), Electrix, Souled Out, Sara Núñez (Ese), Eugènia Correia, Isolda, Kic Barroc, El Tren de la Música, and Bluetonics will also perform, alongside national folk groups.

International acts bring variety, with organisers targeting rising stars rather than big names. Standouts include Texas country group Vandoliers, New York soul outfit Hold My Pocket, Barcelona's psycho funk band Ypnosi, Cuban salsa artist Joao del Monte, France's Mansire, Juventude's flamenco pop-rock, Compota de Mañana, Arar duo, and Maruja Limón. Vilella noted: "Our task is to find bands on the verge of takeoff; we bring quality over names."

The festival reflects growth in Andorra's music scene since its 2014 launch: active bands have risen from 12—mostly covers—to around 60, over 80% now playing originals. Music schools have expanded from three with 400 students to seven with 1,200.

Budgeted at around 170,000 euros and backed by over 20 local firms, the event involves more than 250 artists. Torres highlighted its value for tourist deseasonalisation and diversification at summer's start, while Losada called it a way to grow the local music scene. Additional features include open jam sessions, family concerts, and traditional dance fused with modern sounds.